May 31, 2012 -- Forest Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: FRX) today issued the following statement in response to a Form 13D filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) by High River Limited Partnership and other entities affiliated with Carl C. Icahn, stating an intention to nominate a minority slate of candidates, including Dr. Eric Ende, for election to Forest’s Board of Directors at the Company’s 2012 Annual Meeting.

With the exception of Dr. Ende, who was one of the nominees that Mr. Icahn unsuccessfully put forth at the 2011 Forest Annual Meeting, Mr. Icahn’s proposed slate of nominees has not yet been identified. If Mr. Icahn makes the nomination, the Nominating and Governance Committee of Forest’s Board will evaluate the nominees and make a recommendation. All of Forest’s directors are up for reelection at the 2012 Annual Meeting.

Howard Solomon, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Forest said, “We always value constructive input from our shareholders, but we are puzzled and disappointed that Mr. Icahn’s first chosen method of engagement since last year is the threat of yet another proxy contest.”

Mr. Solomon continued, “Forest Laboratories is strong and performing well. We are executing on the plan outlined last year. We have continued to advance our late stage R&D pipeline through the FDA, successfully launched Daliresp and Viibryd -- our two most recent primary care products -- and reported solid financial performance for fiscal 2012 as we managed expected patent expirations. We are optimistic about our future prospects and believe we are well positioned to build on our strong track record of success, while continuing to deliver groundbreaking therapies to the patients and communities we serve.”

“Our talented leadership team – including a strong, experienced and independent Board – remains focused on continuing to build sustainable momentum and value for all shareholders. Last year, we substantially strengthened our Board, adding three new independent directors: Christopher Coughlin, Gerald Lieberman and Brenton Saunders, each of whom serves on two of our Board committees. These additions have enhanced our Board through their operational skills, financial acumen, investor perspective, compliance expertise, and corporate governance experience.”